I'm struggling to do the right thing...

I am experiencing an enormous amount of stress in my life right now and if left totally unchecked, I'm sure that my weight would be climbing like the elevator to the Empire State Building. I'm constantly fighting the urge to soothe myself with food. I often 'win' these battles, but I find myself faltering much more often than I like and or am comfortable. I use the 'Beck Diet Solution' program which is helpful. I also both attend and host support group meetings on a regular basis. While I find these things helpful, I'm really struggling to keep doing the things I need to do to take care of me. I keep wanting to comfort myself and honestly, I'm most often drawn to food comforts. I give in sometimes and resist sometimes. I do a much better job of recognizing the behaviors that could cause me trouble and resulting weight gain than I used to, but to say that it's a struggle right now is a major understatement.

I do take time to reflect on the good things in life and to count my blessings... sometimes, multiple times daily. That said, the reality is that I'm having a very hard time keeping my equilibrium and my weight steady.

I share this because I hope that others will understand how incredibly important it is to learn to cope and comfort ourselves in ways that do not include food. During the first weeks, months and even first year, it seems like those old demons are more easily thwarted, but as you get beyond the first 18 month or so, your body doesn't necessarly yank you up by the ears like it did early on if you make a 'bad' choice. Eventually, we have to learn long term coping mechanisms to help us manage life's really difficult times so that we don't lapse into the dangerous behaviors that can undo all of the work we put into taking the weight off in the first place. 

I hope that sharing my struggles will help someone else... 

Hi Laura,

Thank you for your lovely, warm note. Hang in there. Right now, is probably the hardest part of your journey and it sounds as though you are coming through is all well. 

While I believe in G-d and do have a spiritual side, I think that I am not nearly as comforted by my faith as many... I wish that were different and maybe in time, that will change. 

When I express my frustration or struggles, please do not mistake that for giving up. While I may give in sometimes, I am far from giving up. Even with my struggles, I am maintaining the significant weight loss and quality of life changes that I've achieved. 

I hope to meet you too. I host general meetings on a monthly basis and special interest groups throughout the month. You are most welcome to attend any of the meetings that you would like to join. 

I look forward to meeting you soon.

Barbara